Geochemical and Physical Characteristics of Iraqi Dust and Soil Samples
Abstract
This study quantified physical and chemical characteristics of dust derived from soils sampled in Iraq. Recognizing that weapons jamming could be related to physical and chemical properties of dust, the Desert Research Institute (DR!) was commissioned by the Army Research Office to undertake an analysis of a limited number of Iraqi dust samples collected during the period 27 March - 8 April 2004 by an onsite geologist of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The purpose of this study is to describe the physical and chemical properties of sampled Iraqi dust, to analyze how this dust reacts with gun lubricants used in Iraq, and to develop recommendations for additional testing that would contribute to resolving the gun-jamming problem experienced by U.S. soldiers. Given the importance of Iraqi dust in its potential to impact military equipment and operations, desert environmental parameters are critical to design tests that reflect real-world conditions-especially conditions most likely to compromise use of critical equipment in harsh desert environments. Analytical results describing physical and chemical properties of the Iraqi dust samples provide scientific guidance for the next steps in solving dust-related problems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 08, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA427368
Entities
People
- Eric V. Mcdonald
- Todd Caldwell
Organizations
- University of Nevada, Reno